State Theatre Nominated for Academy of Country Music Award

Portland venue up for 'Theater of the Year' alongside iconic Nashville stages

Apr. 14, 2026 at 9:52am

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A minimalist, abstract illustration featuring bold black silhouettes of a classic theater marquee and architectural details, set against a high-contrast background of deep red and bright white shapes, conceptually representing the State Theatre's nomination for a prestigious country music award.The State Theatre's nomination for 'Theater of the Year' at the Academy of Country Music Awards underscores its growing reputation as a premier live music destination.Portland Today

The State Theatre in Portland, Maine has been nominated for an Academy of Country Music Award in the 'Theater of the Year' category, competing against prestigious venues like the Grand Ole Opry House and Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. The winners will be announced in the coming weeks, with trophies presented at the ACM awards ceremony in August.

Why it matters

The State Theatre's nomination is a significant honor for the Portland venue, which has established itself as a premier destination for country music and other live entertainment in the Northeast. Being recognized alongside iconic Nashville stages underscores the State Theatre's growing reputation and importance within the country music industry.

The details

The State Theatre is one of five nominees in the 'Theater of the Year' category for the 2026 ACM Studio Recording Awards and Industry Awards. The other nominees are the Grand Ole Opry House and Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, as well as two other prominent country music venues. In a Facebook post, the State Theatre expressed its honor at being nominated for the prestigious award.

  • The 2026 ACM Studio Recording Awards and Industry Award winners will be announced in the coming weeks.
  • The ACM awards ceremony where trophies will be presented is scheduled for August 2026.

The players

State Theatre

A live entertainment venue located in Portland, Maine that has become a prominent destination for country music and other performances in the Northeastern United States.

Grand Ole Opry House

An iconic country music stage located in Nashville, Tennessee that has hosted legendary country music acts for decades.

Ryman Auditorium

A historic music venue in Nashville, Tennessee that is considered the 'Mother Church of Country Music' and has been a key part of the city's musical heritage for over a century.

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What they’re saying

“We're honored to be nominated.”

— State Theatre

The takeaway

The State Theatre's Academy of Country Music Award nomination is a testament to the venue's growing stature and importance within the country music industry, as it stands alongside legendary Nashville stages as one of the top country music theaters in the United States.